Portable device for transferring fluids

ABSTRACT

The invention broadly comprises a portable device for transferring fluids. The device includes an external housing with an inlet and a discharge and a pump disposed within the external housing. The pump includes a pump housing, a motor, and a pumping means. The motor and the pumping means are disposed within the pump housing and the pump comprises an inlet port and an outlet port cooperatively engaged with the inlet and the discharge, respectively. The device also includes a control switch connected to the pump and a power cord with a first end operatively connected to the switch and a second end comprising a power adapter. The power adapter can be a DC power source adapter or a line voltage adapter. In some aspects, the DC power source adapter is configured to connect to a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to portable transfer pumps. In particular, the invention relates to a portable transfer pump for transferring fuels, having an in-line motor and an ergonomic shape. Further, the invention relates to a portable transfer pump powered by an adapter in an automotive vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known to use portable pumps to transfer fluids. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,178 (Carter) discloses a hand-held pump device that can be used for transferring fluids. Carter discloses a two-cycle, air-cooled engine with a power shaft connected to a pump, specifically a water pump. Unfortunately, Carter's two-cycle engine is noisy, bulky, and requires the mixing and use of an oil/gasoline fuel mixture. The separate motor and pump increase the parts count, complexity, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for the device. Also, a separate motor and pump add to the bulk. In fact, Carter discloses a load-bearing surface on the pump that can be used for resting the pump on a level surface. Thus, Carter's pump is portable, but not easily handled.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,004,862 (Hill) and U.S. Pat. No. 3,015,281 (Umholtz) also disclose portable pumps. Unfortunately, Hill uses a relatively bulky pump having a chain-driven gear pump. Umholtz uses an on-board battery and a rotary pump driven by a motor power shaft, all of which add to the weight and bulk of the pump. Unfortunately, for both Hill and Umholtz, the separate motor and pump increase the parts count, complexity, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for the device.

A number of known pumps are specifically designed for removing waste oil. U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,469 (Liu) discloses a portable hand-held suction pump for removing engine oil. Unfortunately, Liu discloses a bulky configuration including a separate motor and a custom-manufactured pumping mechanism including ring and pinion gears, discs, and blocks. Unfortunately, the separate motor and pumping mechanism increase the parts count, complexity, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for the device. The pumping mechanism is of particular concern, since it must be custom-made.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,635,550 (Granberg) discloses a manually portable pump for draining crankcases. The device has an electric motor (the type of power is not disclosed) driving a pump through a gear train. The pumping arrangement includes a specially configured rotor. Unfortunately, the separate motor and pumping arrangement increase the parts count, complexity, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for the device. The pumping arrangement is of particular concern, since it must be custom-made. Further, the separate motor and pump and the gear train increase the weight and bulk of the pump.

Another group of pumps are specifically designed for pumping water, especially in bottled water systems. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,880 (Clarke); U.S. Pat. No. 4,456,149 (Sciortino); U.S. Pat. No. 4,174,743 (Beny, et al.); and U.S. Pat. No. 3,653,413 (Sheya) disclose pumping arrangements for bottled water systems. Unfortunately, Clarke and Sciortino use an AC powered pump, limiting the situations in which the pumps can be used, and include a relatively large housing. Unfortunately, Beny and Sheya disclose the rather narrow application of a pump mounted to a bottle. Further, Sheya's pump is AC-powered.

Thus, there is a long-felt need to provide a lightweight, easily handled, and ergonomic portable device to transfer fluids, particularly fuel, from one vessel to another. Further, there is a long-felt need for the device to use compact, readily-available components to reduce the parts count, complexity, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for the device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention broadly comprises a portable device for transferring fluids. The device includes an external housing with an inlet and a discharge and a pump disposed within the external housing. The pump includes a pump housing, a motor, and a pumping means. The motor and the pumping means are disposed within the pump housing and the pump comprises an inlet port and an outlet port cooperatively engaged with the inlet and the discharge, respectively. The device also includes a control switch connected to the pump and a power cord with a first end operatively connected to the switch and a second end comprising a power adapter. The power adapter can be a DC power source adapter or a line voltage adapter. In some aspects, the DC power source adapter is configured to connect to a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle.

In some aspects, the pump is an in-line pump. In some aspects, the switch is disposed in the housing and in other aspects, the switch is located in the power cord. In some aspects, the power cord is removable from a power connector disposed on the housing.

It is a general object of the present invention to provide a portable device, powered by a remote power source, for transferring fluids.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable device for transferring organic fuels.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a portable device, built from light weight and readily available components, for transferring fluids.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a portable device, having an ergonomic shape familiar to a user, for transferring fluids.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a portable device, powered by a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle, for transferring fluids.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciable from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention and from the accompanying drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a prospective view of a device for transferring fluids embodying the present invention; and,

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the device in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements of the invention. While the present invention is described with respect to what is presently considered to be the preferred aspects, it is to be understood that the invention as claimed is not limited to the disclosed aspects.

Furthermore, it is understood that this invention is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the invention, the preferred methods, devices, and materials are now described.

FIG. 1 is a prospective view of device 10 for transferring fluids embodying the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the device in FIG. 1. The following should be viewed in light of FIGS. 1 and 2. Device 10 includes external housing 12 and pump 14. In general, housing 12 is made of lightweight, strong materials. In some aspects, the material of housing 12 is selected to be compatible with the fluid being transferred. In some aspects, housing 12 is made of nylon 6. However, it should be understood that any material known in the art can be used for housing.

Pump 14 includes housing 16, an integral motor (not shown) and an integral pumping means (not shown). That is, the motor and pumping means for pump 14 are contained within housing 16 of the pump. Alternately stated, the pump motor and pumping mechanism are in a same housing. That is, the pump for device 10 is a single component within housing 12. Pump 14 also is referred to as an in-line pump in the art. In general, pump 14 is a readily available pump as is well-known in the art. In particular, pump 14 is a readily available in-line fuel pump. One example of pump 14 is a Boshi model E8094. However, it should be understood that pump 14 is not limited to this example. Thus, rather than installing a separate pump and then assembling a plurality of parts for the pumping means (some of which may require custom manufacturing), a single, readily-available pump is placed in housing 12. Hence, using a readily-available pump 14 greatly reduces the parts count, parts costs, assembly time, and overall manufacturing costs for device 10. In addition, the integral pumps used for pump 14 are smaller and lighter-weight than multi-component pumps.

Housing 12 includes inlet 18 and device 10 includes discharge 20. In some aspects and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, discharge 20 is separate from housing 12. In some aspects (not shown), discharge 20 is integral to housing 12. Pump 14 includes an inlet port 22 and outlet port 24. Inlet 18 and discharge 20 are cooperatively engaged with ports 22 and 24, respectively. By cooperative engagement, we mean that the inlet/discharge and respective ports are in fluid communication, as shown for discharge 20 and outlet port 24, the inlet/discharge and respective ports are otherwise mechanically connected, or the inlet/discharge at least partially surrounds the respective port, for example, segments 18A and 18B surround inlet port 22 in FIGS. 1 and 2. By fluid communication we mean that either the inlet/discharge and respective ports are directly connected or the inlet/discharge and respective ports are connected via cavities or channels in housing 12.

In some aspects and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, inlet port 22 is adapter 26 used to connect a hose (not shown) to pump 14. By hose, we mean any type of hosing, tubing, piping, or fluid-conveying means, flexible or rigid. The hose can be fixedly or removably connected to adapter 26. Adapter 26 can be formed integrally with pump 14 or can be separate from pump 14 and connected by mechanical means such as threads. In some aspects, device 10 includes a hose (not shown) fixedly connected to adapter 26.

In some aspects, device 10 discharge 20 is discharge tube 28, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In some aspects, outlet 20 secures tube 28 to housing 12. For example, in FIGS. 1 and 2, outlet 20 forms a snug fit about tube 28 (there may be some compression of tube 28 by outlet 20). Discharge tube 28 can be formed integrally with housing 12 (not shown) or can be separate from housing 12 and connected by mechanical means such as threads, adhesive, or compression fitting (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). In some aspects, discharge tube 28 is made of a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminum. Discharge tube 28 and outlet port 24 can be directly joined as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 or can be joined by a tube, pipe, or hose (not shown), which can be flexible or rigid. Tube 28 and port 24 can be joined using any means known in the art, such as threads or adhesives, and can be made of any other material known in the art and compatible with the fluids to be transferred using device 10. In some aspects (not shown), discharge 20 is an adapter, similar to adapter 26, in fluid communication with outlet port 24 and used to connect a hose. In these aspects, pump 14 discharge fluids through the hose connected to discharge 20.

Device 10 also includes a power cord (not shown), and power adapter 30. To simplify the presentation, the power cord is not shown. One end of the cord is mounted to housing 12 and the other end is connected to adapter 30. Adapter 30 and the power cord supply power to pump 14. Adapter 30 is arranged for connection to a power source (not shown). In some aspects, adapter 30 is fused. In some aspects, pump 14 runs on DC power. In some aspects, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, pump 14 runs on 12V DC power and adapter 30 is configured to connect to a power port adapter, for example, a cigarette lighter, in an automotive vehicle. It should be understood that aspects of pump 14 using DC power are not limited to 12V DC and can be configured to run on other DC voltage levels. In some aspects (not show), pump 14 runs on AC power and adapter 30 is configured to connect to an AC power source, for example, an AC line voltage receptacle. It should be understood that pump 14 can be made to run a variety of AC power levels, for example, 115V, 60 Hz power or 230V, 50 Hz power. In some aspects, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, adapter 30 can be stored in cavity 32 in housing 12.

Device 10 includes control switch 34, arranged to control power to pump 14. Control wiring (not shown) connects the cord with the switch. Control wiring (not shown) connects switch 34 and pump 14. In some aspects, control switch 34 is sealed and includes gaskets compatible with organic fuels. In some aspects, switch 34 is a momentary contact switch. However, it should be understood that other types of switches, such as maintained contact switches, can be used for switch 34. In some aspects, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, switch 34 is mounted in housing 12, for example, in handle grip 36. In some aspects, device 10 includes a power cord (not shown). One end of the power cord is connected to adapter 30 and the other end is attached to housing 12. Control wiring (not shown) connects the power cord and switch 34. In some aspects (not shown), switch 30 is disposed within the power cord. In some aspects (not shown), a power cord and adapter are detachable from housing 12. In these aspects, device 10 includes a power connector, disposed in housing 12 for connecting the power cord.

Handgrip 36 is at least partially formed by the configuration of housing 12. For example, opening 38 is formed by housing 12 and opening 38 forms the space into which the fingers or hand of a person using device 10 can extend. That is, opening 38 at least partially outlines handgrip 36. Housing 12 and grip 36 are configured to give device 10 an ergonomic shape and to make device 10 easy to use. In some aspects, device 10 is formed in the general shape of a nozzle for a fuel dispenser, for example, a gasoline dispenser at a gas station (not shown). However, it should be understood that device 10 is not limited to any particular shape.

In some aspects, device 10 includes structure 40 used for coiling the power cord. That is, the power cord can be coiled about structure 40. Structure 40 extends from the main body 42 of housing 12. It should be understood that structure 40 can have other shapes and can extend from other parts of housing 12 than as shown. Structure 40 can be formed integrally with housing 12 or can be a separate component from housing 12 (not shown). Structure 40 can be formed of plastic, metal, or any material known in the art and may be affixed to housing 12 by any means known in the art, such as rivets or screws.

In some aspects, device 10 is portable. By portable, we mean that device 10 can be readily moved between locations by a person of average strength and can be held and used by a person of average strength without requiring supplemental support for the device (assuming the device is not used for extended periods of time). The portability is at least partially due to the use of lightweight materials, the ergonomic shape of the device, the use of a pump having an on-board motor, and use of a remote energy source (i.e., not storing fuel or a battery on-board to power the pump). Discharge tube 28 also aids portability, since in some cases, discharge tube 28 at least partially stabilizes device 10 when inserted in the opening of a fuel tank or fuel storage container (not shown).

The following is one example of the configuration and use of device 10. Device 10 is configured for use in transferring organic fuel, such as gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel. An embodiment transferring fuel from the tank of an automotive vehicle to a storage container is described. However, it should be understood that other transfer arrangements are possible, such as transferring fuel from a portable container to a vehicle fuel tank, and that the present invention is not limited to one particular type of usage. Housing 12 is substantially formed in the shape of a nozzle for a fuel dispenser. This shape is familiar and consistent with the use of device 10, since, in this example, device 10 is functioning similar to a fuel dispenser. A flexible hose (not shown) is connected to device 10 using adapter 26. Adapter 26 is sized to accept a 5/16 diameter, transparent, fuel-resistant line. The tubing is inserted in the fuel tank of an automotive vehicle. Discharge tube 28 is inserted in the tank of a gas-using device or a storage container into which fuel is to be transferred. Pump 14 runs on 12V DC power and adapter 30 is configured for connection to the power adapter or cigarette lighter of a vehicle. The power cord (not shown) can be of any length compatible with voltage drop and other requirements, for example, 18 feet. A momentary contact switch is used for control switch 34 to enhance control of device 10. For example, a user must apply constant pressure to activate the switch and the switch deactivates when the user removes the pressure. As switch 34 is engaged, pump 14 draws fuel from the vehicle tank, through the hose and discharges the fuel through discharge tube 28. Device 10 advantageously eliminates the need for siphoning with its attendant hazards and allows fuel to be safely transferred between containers without necessitating the containers to be in close proximity. Also, device 10 can be used to transfer relatively small amounts of fuel in a controlled fashion.

Thus, it is seen that the objects of the invention are efficiently obtained, although changes and modifications to the invention should be readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as claimed. Although the invention is described by reference to a specific preferred embodiment, it is clear that variations can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as claimed. 

1. A portable device for transferring fluids, comprising: an external housing with an inlet and a discharge; and, a pump disposed within said external housing, said pump comprising a pump housing, a motor, and a pumping means, where said motor and said pumping means are disposed within said pump housing and where said pump comprises an inlet port and an outlet port cooperatively engaged with said inlet and said discharge, respectively.
 2. The device recited in claim 1 wherein said pump is an in-line pump.
 3. The device recited in claim 1 further comprising: a control switch connected to said pump; and, a first power cord with a first end operatively connected to said switch and a second end comprising a power adapter.
 4. The device recited in claim 3 wherein said power adapter is selected from the group consisting of a DC power source adapter and a line voltage adapter.
 5. The device recited in claim 4 wherein said DC power source adapter is configured to connect to a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle.
 6. The device recited in claim 3 wherein said control switch is disposed in said housing.
 7. The device recited in claim 3 wherein said control switch is disposed between said first and second ends of said first power cord.
 8. The device recited in claim 3 further comprising: a power connector disposed on said housing, said power connector arranged to removably receive a second power cord.
 9. The device recited in claim 3 wherein said housing forms an opening and said opening at least partially outlines a hand grip; and, said device further comprising: a structure extending from said housing, said structure arranged for engaging said first cord.
 10. The device recited in claim 1 wherein said inlet port comprises an adapter arranged to connect a hose to said pump.
 11. The device recited in claim 10 wherein said adapter is arranged to removably connect said hose to said pump.
 12. The device recited in claim 1 wherein said outlet comprises a discharge tube.
 13. The device recited in claim 12 wherein said discharge tube is formed separate from said housing.
 14. The device recited in claim 1 wherein said outlet comprises an adapter arranged to connect a hose to said pump.
 15. A portable pumping device, comprising: an external housing; a discharge tube; a pump disposed within said external housing, said pump comprising a pump housing, a motor, and a pumping means, where said motor and said pumping means are disposed within said pump housing and where said pump comprises an inlet adapter arranged to removably connect a hose and an outlet port in fluid communication with said discharge tube; a control switch disposed on said housing and connected to said pump; and, a power cord operatively connected to said switch and comprising a DC power adapter.
 16. The device recited in claim 15 wherein said discharge tube is integral to said external housing.
 17. The device recited in claim 15 wherein said DC power adapter is arranged to connect to a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle.
 18. The device recited in claim 15 wherein said control switch is a momentary contact switch.
 19. A portable device for transferring organic fuels, comprising: an external housing comprising a discharge tube; a pump disposed within said external housing, said pump comprising a pump housing, a motor, and a pumping means, where said motor and said pumping means are disposed within said pump housing and where said pump comprises an inlet adapter arranged to removably connect a hose and an outlet port in fluid communication with said discharge tube; a momentary-contact control switch disposed in said housing and connected to said pump; and, a power cord with a first end operatively connected to said switch and a second end comprising a DC power adapter arranged to connect to a power port adapter in an automotive vehicle.
 20. The device recited in claim 19 wherein said discharge tube is formed separately from said external housing. 